This was one of the best chapters yet. And I agree with @Seraph28 about Marvin. Admittedily I was harsh in my thoughts with him, and for the most part, still do. Kellin, his toxic ex-boyfriend, has much to answer for; somehow, someway karma will come to bite him in the ass...Marvin has a mighty amount of healing to do, hopefully with a qualified professional.
Dawn was a surprise, and Arthur never fails to make me scratch my head; he also needs help!
Kudos to Dailan for having that conversation, hopefully it is the beginning steps to a real relationship...I found the following powerful...
“You’re in the same boat, huh?” she asked gently.
“Feels like it,” I murmured. “Dailan’s mom cut him off. His dad said the right things, but a decade too late. And I’ve got my own crew learning to catch up. Some days feel like we’re getting there. Some feel like we never will.”
“But you’re not giving up?”
“Not a chance.”
She exhaled. “Good. Because I’ve always believed… love isn’t something you just find and protect. It’s something you build. Over time. Over fights and silences and awkward dinners. You earn it.”
I looked down at Forest, who had fallen asleep with oatmeal still smeared across his cheek.
“I’m trying,” I said softly. “For him. For Dailan. For me.”